The readings today remind us that we need to live our faith each day and not merely give our faith lip service. Do we listen to God’s words? Do we reach out to those who persecute us? Do we recognize that regardless of what happens in this world, we “shall not be put to shame?” For ultimately God is the one who upholds us, not the people of this world. James emphasizes this when he reminds us of what Matthew says, “just because you call me Lord, does not mean you will enter the kingdom.” It is not enough to call ourselves Christians. As someone once asked, “If it were illegal to be a Christian, would there be enough evidence to convict us?”
The Gospel reminds us that we need to see the world, not as we desire, but as God desires. Even Peter, who after professing faith, was chastised for not seeing as God does. Are we willing to deny ourselves and our wishes and desires in order to take up our cross and follow Jesus? Or are we too busy saving our life in this world, only to lose it in the next?
Countenance of God 